Libyan rebels gaining ground in Brega

Libyans stand on a destroyed tank belonging to leader Moamer Kadhafi forces celebrating at the west gate of Ajdabiya on March 26, 2011, as Libyan rebels seized control of this strategic city marking their first significant victory over Colonel Kadhafi's forces since the launch of the Western-led air strikes a week ago. UPI\Mohamad shukhi. | License Photo

TRIPOLI, Libya, April 4 (UPI) -- Libyan rebels were advancing in fierce fighting in the front-line oil town of Brega as night fell Monday, witnesses said.

The New York Times reported black smoke from an oil fire over the town and large explosions of uncertain origin.

The rebels earlier Monday entered the town's northeast and took the New Brega district.

Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi forces were still holding the local university, and oil facilities sustained steady rebel machine gun and rocket fire, backed by a possible NATO airstrike, the Times said.

The BBC reported the rebels seemed more organized and disciplined than before but are still poorly equipped and trained.

A rebel spokesman rejected any transition of power involving any of Gadhafi's sons, the BBC said.

The spokesman said the Transitional National Council in Benghazi opposed the idea -- reported by several media outlets -- that Saif and Saadi Gadhafi could step in as interim leaders if their father resigned.